Does pet insurance cover euthanasia?

Are there specific pet insurance plans that cover euthanasia?

• Accident-only pet insurance plans may cover euthanasia if your pet suffers a covered accident, and your veterinarian recommends the procedure.
• Accident and illness plans, also known as comprehensive plans, may also cover euthanasia if your pet suffers from a covered injury or illness and your veterinarian recommends it.

If euthanasia coverage is important to you, be sure to review the policy's coverage terms before buying a plan.

Does pet insurance cover burial costs?

Burial costs aren't usually covered by pet insurance because it's not a medical cost. Some insurers might offer pet burial insurance, but this coverage is usually through a burial life insurance policy, not a pet insurance policy. They're typically only purchased for working animals like purebred breeding dogs, prize-winning show dogs, or pets that earn money for their owners through product endorsements or social media.

If your pet doesn't earn money, it's likely more practical to set aside a few hundred dollars as a burial fund rather than take out a life insurance policy for them. Many pet parents choose to bury their pet at home after they've been euthanized. However, this is illegal in many areas — you can instead purchase a casket and a pet cemetery plot or have them cremated.

Does pet insurance cover cremation?

Like with pet burials, insurance usually doesn't cover cremation, even when it's performed or billed through a veterinarian's office, because cremation isn't a medical procedure. As with pet burial costs, it might make sense to set aside some money to pay for your pet's cremation expenses, which may range from a minimal amount up to a few hundred dollars.

How to file a pet insurance euthanasia claim

You're most likely feeling emotional when you file a euthanasia claim — but know that the general process is like any other pet insurance claim. You'll need confirmation from your licensed vet that the procedure is necessary, and if your pet insurance policy has a waiting period, that period must be over before the procedure is done.

Most pet insurers allow you to file a humane euthanasia claim online or by email, fax, or mail. You'll need to submit a copy of the treatment invoice. Once your claim is approved, the insurer will pay out up to your coverage limit and minus your pet insurance deductible.

How can I get pet insurance?

You can get a pet insurance quote online to see how coverages and pricing can be customized to your pet. You can also call 1-877-298-0639 to speak with a licensed representative.